The Enforcement Committee of the Film and Publication Board slaps heavy fines on noncompliant distributors of films and games in South Africa
The Enforcement Committee of the Film and Publication Board (FPB) imposed heavy fines on 21 (twenty-one) noncompliant distributors of films and games in South Africa. The fines range from R150 000 for distribution of films/games in the Republic without being registered as distributors, R750 000 for distribution of unclassified adult films and distribution of such films without a licence to conduct the business of adult premises as well as R50 000 for distributing films without displaying clearly and conspicuously, the age restriction and consumer advice imposed on the films distributed. Below is the list of the distributors that were fined by the Enforcement Committee.
- TV yabantu
- Aylo t/a Redtube
- Epic Games
- Brazzers
- MzansiFun
- Cultpix
- Bob-shop/Bid or buy
- Reality Kings
- Trendy World (Double K Divine Events) Pty Ltd
- Game X
- Pleasure Palace
- Mubi
- NoorPlay
- Msathi 3D
- Tello Films
- Megogo
- Crunchy Rolls
- Iwantclips
- Living Scriptures
- Watchlist-Pro
- Adult Epic
The enforcement actions followed physical and online compliance inspections by FPB compliance officers, and distributors were found to be in contravention of the provisions in the Films and Publications Act and as a result, fines were imposed in respect of the following contraventions:
- unlawfully distributing/exhibiting films or games within the RSA without being registered with the FPB as distributors of films or games as required by the FP Act;
- Distribution of films which have not been classified by FPB as required by the FP Act;
- Distribution of unclassified adult films and distribution of such films without a licence to conduct the business of adult premises; and
- Distribution of films without displaying clearly and conspicuously, the age restriction and consumer advice imposed on the films distributed.
The noncompliant distributors who are based in South Africa as well as abroad were distributors of films (online and physical), including adult films, as well as distributors of games (online and physical).
The Enforcement Committee is independent, impartial and performs its functions without fear, favour and prejudice and acts in accordance with the law, Chaired by the retired judge of the High Court Justice Thokozile Masipa.
The Enforcement Committee has the powers to investigate all cases referred to it by the Board for adjudication in respect of noncompliance with any provision of the Act by distributors or exhibitors of films and games in South Africa. Where appropriate, it has powers to inter alia impose a fine or suspend a registration certificate.
For media enquiries or interviews, please contact:
Ms Manala Botolo
Assistant Manager Communications and Marketing
Email: manala.botolo@fpb.org.za
Cell: 082 860 6748
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